Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar, conveyed the Centre's in-principle approval for Phase II of the Hyderabad Metro Rail project, proposing a 50:50 cost-sharing basis with the Telangana government.
Key points
- Centre has no objection to HMR Phase II and is willing to proceed on a 50:50 cost-sharing basis.
- Telangana government has submitted proposals for a 162 km expansion.
- Centre will conduct a comprehensive examination of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and technical specifications.
- The meeting also reviewed urban development initiatives in Hyderabad, including Musi River rejuvenation.
Background & context
The Hyderabad Metro Rail (HMR) project is a rapid transit system serving Hyderabad. Phase I has been completed and is operational. Phase II aims to expand the network significantly.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The proposed Phase II expansion of the Hyderabad Metro Rail covers 162 km.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1: Urbanization. GS Paper 2: Governance, Centre-State relations. GS Paper 3: Infrastructure.
Why in news?
Iran has announced the establishment of a professional mechanism to manage traffic and formalized a toll system for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy chokepoint.
Key points
- Iran has created a new body, the Persian Gulf Strait Authority, to manage vessel movement.
- A professional mechanism has been set up to manage traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.
- This formalizes a toll system for vessels transiting the strait.
- The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial chokepoint for one-fifth of global oil and LNG supplies.
Background & context
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It is a vital transit route for crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the Middle East to global markets. Its strategic importance makes it a frequent site of geopolitical tension.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Strait of Hormuz accounts for approximately one-fifth of global oil and LNG supplies.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1: Geography. GS Paper 2: International relations, Geopolitics. GS Paper 3: Economy, Energy Security.
Why in news?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral discussions with Italian President Sergio Mattarella to further expand cooperation in key areas such as trade, technology, clean energy, and culture.
Key points
- Discussions focused on strengthening the India-Italy partnership.
- Key areas of cooperation include trade, technology, and clean energy.
- The meeting was attended by senior Indian officials including the External Affairs Minister and NSA.
- This meeting follows PM Modi's participation in the India-Nordic Summit in Norway.
Background & context
India and Italy have a long-standing strategic partnership. Both countries are members of various international forums and are engaged in cooperation across multiple sectors, including economic, cultural, and defense.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: International Relations, Bilateral relations, India and its neighbourhood.